Game Accessibility for the Blind: Current Overview and the Potential Application of Audio Description as the Way Forward

Abstract

Over the past four decades video games have become a worldwide phenomenon and one of the preferred leisure options for many. However, game accessibility remains a pending issue, due to the visual and interactive nature of the medium. Mangiron and Zhang analyse the current state of game accessibility, particularly for the blind and visually impaired. They discuss the barriers and gaming options for this target group, such as audio games and ‘video-less’ games. Finally, the chapter explores the feasibility of applying audio description to video games, which would potentially enhance game accessibility for blind and visually impaired players.